Attendees can join the celebration and grand opening of the new bridge
SPOKANE – A celebratory ribbon cutting on Monday, July 10, will mark the grand opening of Spokane’s new East Trent Bridge that crosses the Spokane River on State Route 290/Trent Avenue. The public is invited to attend the ribbon-cutting festivities which begin at 10 a.m. on the bridge. Local, state and federal officials will join representatives from the Washington State Department of Transportation to mark the occasion.
New bridge features
The new bridge incorporates several design elements from the old East Trent Bridge that was demolished in 2020-2021. The most prominent feature, the Luten style arch design, has been incorporated into portions of the pedestrian railing of the new bridge along with stamped concrete on the western retaining walls.
The previous bridge was built in 1910 and had exceeded its useful lifespan. The road, bridge rail, and piers needed ongoing and extensive maintenance and repairs. It also lacked options for people to safely walk, ride bicycles or use other mobility equipment to cross it. The new bridge features a 10-foot-wide shared use path, 6-foot wide protected sidewalk and 5-foot shoulders that can be used as a bike lane. These new elements increase options for active transportation in the area.
The project to replace the old East Trent Bridge began in March of 2020 and will be completed nearly six months ahead of schedule. The bridge will officially open to traffic before the morning commute on Tuesday, July 11. During demolition and reconstruction of the bridge, drivers have used alternate routes and detours to travel around the closure and cross the Spokane River.
East Trent Bridge ribbon cutting and celebration details
When: 10 – 11 a.m. Monday, July 10
Where: On the East Trent Bridge crossing the Spokane River
Details: The event will feature speeches from local, state and federal representatives. Pictures will show the previous bridge from 1910. Following brief remarks from key leaders, WSDOT staff will be on hand to discuss the project and answer questions. The event is open to anyone interested. Light refreshments will be provided.